IN April 1972, young mother of two Judy Abela walked into the main street office of local legal firm Baker Deane and Nutt and asked if there were any positions available.

She started work a fortnight later as secretary for John Nutt, and last week celebrated 42 years of ongoing employment with the firm, now located on Crawford St.

Mrs Abela is a much-loved member of the Baker Deane and Nutt team, and bakes a cake to celebrate every major birthday or milestone of her 30-odd colleagues. However last week it was her turn to be surprised when partner at the firm Lorraine White baked cupcakes to mark the occasion.

Now a grandmother in her early 70s, Ms Abela said she still loved her work with the firm, and especially the people she works with.

"I just love coming to work," she said. "To me it's an extended family. After all, we probably spend more time here than at home," she laughed.

Ms White said Mrs Abela added a lot of warmth and experience to the team, and knew every client that came through the door by name.

"Judy knows everybody here in Queanbeyan," she said.

"There's not a person that comes through the door that she doesn't know. "We're very lucky to have her."